Donate food, toys, winter gear, get free admission to downtown Raleigh ice rink Monday

You can skate for free at the downtown Raleigh Winterfest ice rink on Monday with the donation of four canned goods; toys; and gently used or new jackets, blankets, scarves and winter hats. Donations will benefit local downtown charities.

The Downtown Raleigh Ambassadors are hosting their second annual Christmas drive at the rink from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday. The rink is on City Plaza on Fayetteville Street.

In addition to free admission, Polar Ice House, which operates the rink, will have instructors on the ice from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. It's a great opportunity for parents and kids to learn some skating skills. (You can also see my earlier post with some skating tips thanks to Robyn Poe of Polar Ice House).

The day also includes some live music and prize giveaways throughout the day.

For more information about Monday's event, click here.